Where to travel from Singapore that's less than five hours away

Surrounded by beautiful rolling hills, Taiwan’s capital city is the perfect getaway for those who want the best of both nature and the city. Within Taipei City, walking trails like the Elephant Mountain Trail and Jinmianshan Trail offer sweeping views of Taipei 101 and the surrounding urban sprawl. Further out at Yangmingshan National Park, you’ll find towering peaks, hot springs, and waterfalls. When you’ve had your dose of nature, return to Taipei city for café jaunts on Chifeng Street, countless night markets full of delicious street snacks, and creative happenings at Songshan Cultural and Creative Hub. 

Where to stay: Treat yourself to a stay at Kimpton Da An, a boutique hotel in Zhongsan District. Rent a complimentary bike from Kimpton to explore the city. After immersing in its bustle, you’ll be glad to return to the sanctuary of these modern and cosy rooms which have thoughtful perks like a yoga mat, espresso machines, and a morning coffee and tea service. Those with fur babies will be glad to know that the hotel is pet-friendly too. 

The Philippines’ capital city is a vibrant mix of Filipino, Spanish, and American culture. In recent years, Manila has also upped its culinary game, with top-notch bars and restaurants popping up on every street and corner. For a start, take a walking tour through a former colonial outpost of the Spanish empire known as Intramuros, or step into the majestic halls and courtyard gardens of the San Agustin Church and Museum. There are modern pursuits too, like the 4D cinema rooms at Bonaficio Global City and modern Filipino plates at Locavore Kitchen x Drinks. Wind down with a sunset walk along the breezy Manila Boardwalk, a waterside promenade lined with stalls selling halo-halo and other street eats. 

Where to stay: There’s a reason that The Manila Hotel is called the Grand Dame – it has been a landmark in the city for more than 100 years. To this day, it impresses with its old-world elegance – updated to modern comforts and service standards. This is a particularly good stay for history buffs, as it is within striking distance of historical attractions like Intramuros and Rizal Park. But if you want to stay in, the hotel also has a contemporary art museum and heritage museum for you to explore. 

Although it doesn’t offer beachy shores, Northern Thailand is equally laidback as its southern counterpart. Admire the Burmese-style temples and ornately carved teak houses in the lush rainforest and jungle. Check out the cool boutiques and galleries, artist communities, and of course, sink your teeth in Isaan cuisine - some of the best street food in Thailand. 

Where to stay: Escape to the natural wonders of Northern Thailand at The Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle. Boasting 15 luxurious tents and a two-bedroom Explorer’s Lodge, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is nestled in a magical bamboo forest overlooking the Mekong River. There’s also a chance to interact and care for rescued elephants.

Not the most coveted destination, but this city in Sarawak is rich in natural landscapes. Pay a visit to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, home to the endangered Bornean Orangutans. Learn more about them and be entertained as your ape friends swing from tree to tree. For some adventure, kayak down the 11km Sunget Sarawak Kiri surrounded by mangroves and limestones. Don’t forget to visit Anah Rais, a village home to the Bidayuh tribe and bamboo longhouses. For some exploration, the Bako National Park has ten hiking trails for you to choose from. They all offer varying lookout points, views and wildlife to greet. Kuching is also big in the street food department. Munch on bowls of Sarawak laksa, pork ribs and its signature dish, kolo mee.

Where to stay: With vaulted ceilings, dark beams and whitewashed walls, The Marian Boutique Lodging House exudes colonial-style charm. An old warehouse which has been creatively restored is now a unique dining hall that serves Mediterranean and European cuisine including homecake cakes and desserts and some of the best cocktails in Kuching. The hotel is also near attractions including the Sarawak River, waterfront bazaar and the Darul Hana Bridge.

Hong Kong is a wonderful city of contrasts. The densely packed city has world-class exhibitions, artsy junkyards, glitzy restaurants, and time-tested traditional eats – not to mention tons of nature and adventure activities right in the city or in the surrounding islands. If it’s your first time, hop on the Star Ferry to enjoy the iconic Hong Kong skyline along Victoria Harbour and visit a dai pai dong for a no-frills local meal. Browse the antiques at Upper Lascar Row or pick through the restaurants, cafes, and bars on Hollywood Road. Otherwise, enjoy seaside views on a east-west cycle in New Territories and explore rock formations and salt pans at islands like Tung Ping Chau and Yim Tin Tsai. 

Where to stay: There is no shortage of hotels in Hong Kong, many of which afford stunning views of the famed Hong Kong skyline. Ovolo Southside offers that, alongside a huge dose of personality. This converted warehouse pops with vibrant artwork, 80s rockstar-inspired suites, and retro music videos playing on TVs in the elevator. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with prime views of mountains and sea.  

A trip to Bali is never a bad idea. If you’re looking for a laidback beachfront getaway, or a lush jungle hideaway, travelling to the Island of the Gods should be at the top of your list. Offering rich greenery and diverse landscapes, Bali is great if you want to escape the stresses of city life. Try out spiritual experiences and surf lessons, or even lay down on a beach and do absolutely nothing. It’s not hard to pack plenty of activities into your itinerary, even if you’re there for a few days.

Where to stay: Head for the cliffs and escape into Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort, where you get sensational ocean views of the world-renowned Impossible Beach. The beach is one of the most famous surf points in Bali where surfers can descend through the resort’s beach elevator to the beautiful rocky beach. Book the resort’s ‘Uluwatu Bliss’ package and disappear into a world of indulgence beginning with a back and shoulder massage, a two-course dinner, and accommodation in a suite or pool villa.

For a tropical escape, Da Nang is your best bet. The former French colonial port is now full of cultural and culinary delights, with white sandy beaches and beautiful places to stay. Tick the famous Golden Bridge off your itinerary before enjoying rollercoasters and more thrilling rides at Fantasy Amusement Park. Those who prefer nature and sweeping scenic views should hike the Marble Mountains or cycle the Son Tra Peninsula. For a spot of culture, visit the Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture or the Danang Fine Arts Museum. 

Where to stay: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort boasts 201 luxurious rooms, suites, penthouses and villas in a bold monochrome palette. With endless ocean views, you’ll feel relaxed in no time. For wellness, opt for the Naman Retreat. It offers traditional methods of healing - from holistic spa treatments to yoga and tai chi.

Famous among the three Gilis, Trawangan is a great place to explore Indonesia’s diverse marine life. See all kinds of colourful fish, reef sharks and stingrays at Shark Point. For experienced divers, deep dive and explore some pretty spectacular wrecks like the Glenn Nusa 1 or Bounty Wreck. Also known to be a party island, Gili Trawangan is packed with cool bars and hangouts where you can drink the night away. One place you shouldn’t miss is Sama Sama Reggae Bar. Serving good drinks and vibes, it also has live reggae music shows. Other places to hang out include Blue Marlin and The Irish Pub.

Where to stay: This chic villa resort boasts luxurious boutique accommodation. At Kokomo Resort, you get fantastic sea views as well as private pools. Enjoy a breakfast on the beach of banana pancakes with honey and lime and berry coulis. Book a boat trip, through the resort, to one of the neighbouring islands for a snorkelling session or even a romantic picnic.

Siem Reap has stolen the hearts of many tourists with its chic hotels and trendy cafés that incorporate Cambodian style and tradition. Aside from the incredible Angkor Wat, check out the Old Market (or as the locals call it “Psar Chaa”), walk down the dim alleyways of the meat section where you’ll find freshly made sausages hanging on strings, or walk through the rows of vendors sitting on straw floor mats selling dried seafood. And whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening of Western food or a wild night of Angkor beers on tap, Pub Street is the place to be. 

Where to stay: Stay at Amansara, which was once a residence for the king’s guests. Through thoughtful renovation, the building has been lovingly restored to its former glory and enhanced with contemporary design. It is also extended with 12 pool suites around a grassy courtyard that segues perfectly into the quietly luxurious ambience of yesteryear, making the Amansara Siem Reap’s classiest accommodation.  Just 10 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Archaeological Park, Amansara offers guests customised itineraries including cycling, meditation in an ancient forest and more.

For a truly relaxing vacation away from the tourist crowds, pack your bags for Nikoi Island. This 15-hectare private island is under three hours from Singapore, offering untouched nature, heaps of adventure, and understated luxury all rolled into one. Explore Nikoi's lush forests on dedicated tracks or dive right into its teeming reef. Kayaking, windsurfing, tennis, even a secluded pool under towering rock formations – Nikoi's an oasis for all sorts of travellers. 

Where to stay: The Nikoi Private Island villas are your only option but that's no cause for complaint. 18 stylish two-storey beach houses keep you close to nature – enjoy the ocean breeze from the private daybeds on the first-floor open deck, or gaze out at the ocean from the expansive balcony. Nikoi has also introduced two new pool villas for a luxurious soak in your own personal heaven. Enjoy Mediterranean-style dining at Biru or kick back with a drink and sunset views at three bars on the island to cap your island getaway.